Early in the afternoon on March 5, the victim received a phone call from someone who said their computer had been infected with a virus.

The victim granted remote access to the computer. They caller proceeded to collect details about the victim’s financial accounts and passwords.

“The victim was then instructed to purchase approximately $7,000 in Google Play cards from various stores while the caller stayed on the phone with the victim,” Const. Ed Sanchuk, spokesperson for the Norfolk OPP, said in a news release.

“After all the cards were purchased, the victim then provided the male with the serial and identification numbers. Police urge everyone to hang up the phone if you should receive such a call. It is a scam.”

Police report the victim was on the phone with the scammer several times over the course of five hours.

The public is reminded to never grant remote access to your computer unless you initiate the call to a reputable tech-support service. Never hand our personal, banking or credit card information to anyone unless you know who you are dealing with.